The room fell quiet. Even Eric stopped smirking.
Oliver began to read. His voice shook at first, then steadied.
“To my beloved grandson. If you are reading this then I am gone. People may try to take the home where you and your mother live. I want you to know your mother Natalie is the only person who cared for me in my final years. My sons did not visit. They did not call. They only asked about money. Natalie held my hand when I was sick. She fed me. She stayed when I cried. I leave this home to her. Love is stronger than blood.”
Tears slid down my face. I had no idea Diane had written this.
Eric slammed his palm on the table. “This is a lie. She was confused. She was sick.”
Oliver looked at him without fear. “Grandma was not confused. She knew my name. She helped me read. She knew who loved her.”
Judge Walsh reached out her hand. “May I see the letter.”
Oliver passed it forward. The judge examined the handwriting.
“This appears consistent with medical records of Mrs. Keller’s handwriting,” she said quietly. “But we will continue.”
Oliver nodded. “There is more.”
He reached into his other pocket and pulled out a small tablet covered in stickers.